So I figured I’d dedicate this blog to recap on #YGYR19. First, let’s just address the change from last year’s retreat to this one. My mind is still blown at just how much can happen over the course of a year. Ironically I feel like I’m walking into a similar season that I was in around this time last year—needing to detach and refocus—however, my mindset is completely different. And so here we are.

This retreat was right on time. For those who don’t know, I just got out of a relationship (another blog for another day), but when I say this retreat was everything I needed. I’m all for disconnecting from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and I absolutely enjoyed not having cell or internet service while we were gone. To be fully present in this moment was important to me so I had no desire to even be on my phone. I took advantage of this time to rest and reconnect with the friends who have been there for me since my walk began. In all honesty, it meant so much for me to just be there because months earlier, I carried the heaviest burden believing that I wouldn’t be able to enjoy it like I hoped too. But GOD. He’s shown me a level of love that I had not known before and has completely re-set the standard in my life. Every moment was total bliss. From the drive in on Wednesday night where the stars glistened in abundance, to the mountain top campfire as the Sun was setting; from sitting in the grass and having conversations with Jiyra as we watched the boys play flag football to dancing with Keni after worship service—I simply just cannot get over how far God has brought me. To be able to enjoy these kinds of moments with genuine, honest people. I can hardly fathom.

Furthermore, my relationships have grown so much deeper and my faith so much stronger. With that, I’m sure you’d find it hard to believe that I still get nervous in these moments. That sometimes that shy girl I was before still whispers in my ear, telling me I don’t belong here. What I love most about these retreats though, is that they create a safe space to be real and vulnerable. In these moments, no matter what fear I’m faced with, I trust where God has me and I know that my transparency will bring healing and comfort. No matter how inconsistent I’ve been, God still meets me there and speaks victory over my life. No matter how uncomfortable or uncertain I may be, my worship is what sets me free and opens my heart to a never-changing God. I may walk in one way, but I guarantee I leave out another.

Again, this retreat (which was only my second) was definitely one for the books. This past year alone has brought about a ton of change, not just in my life but in our church’s life too. Matt and Mariah got married, C. Oliver’s Cafe & Flower Bar officially opened, and we moved out of our old building into a bigger and better one. So many great accomplishments, one after the other, and after this retreat, I know there’s even more to come. Being around so many aspiring and talented people just compels me to press towards the call God has for me. It’s amazing to see what God can do when you put your trust in His hands. Oct. 4th marked two years for me since I first visited the church (yes I’m big on dates so I will forever honor that day LOL). Needless to say, you couldn’t have told me last year that where I am is where I’d be. Not every choice I’ve made has been the best; I’m human and at times I thought I knew what was best for me. I depended on my own understanding instead of putting my trust in the Lord. But I thank God that His grace isn’t based off of my works. Despite my mistakes, there is greater in store for me after what I’ve been through this past year and I am claiming it ALL.

So I say this all to say that no matter where you are in your life, when you truly hand your pen over to God and allow Him to write the script, His story-line will be a whole lot greater than you trying to write it yourself. My encouragement this week is if you don’t know God, then get to know Him. If you don’t know where to start, reach out. Our doors at New Destiny Worship Center are always open. God is the way and if He did it for me, He can do it for you. To all of YG, I thank you for loving me. Y’all give me a joy like no other. #YGYR19 was my confirmation to continue walking in the authority God has given me. To stand on His Word and to never settle for less than I deserve. He has already planted the seed in me and it is up to me to water it. I don’t need a tool, I am the tool. And as David said, the future is looking pretty bright! (insider) HAHA!

Until next time . . <3

“Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.” - John‬ ‭14:6‬ ‭(KJV‬‬)

“Above all, lift up the [protective] shield of faith with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. And take THE HELMET OF SALVATION, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God.” - Ephesians‬ ‭6:16-17‬ ‭(AMP‬‬)

“Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever.” - Hebrews‬ ‭13:8‬ ‭(KJV‬‬)